Roberto Figueroa was born and raised in Cuernavaca, Mexico. His earliest influences were some of the master painters of early 20th-century Mexico, and his artwork was inspired by the intense color saturation and bold expressions of the works of the great Mexican muralists and painters.  

Roberto studied art at the University of the State of Morelos, Mexico; and continued evolving his art and photography when he came to New York City in the late 1970s. His studies continued at the International Center of Photography, Art Students League, Pratt University, and School of Visual Arts in New York City. 

He worked for many years as a professional art conservator of priceless 19th and 20th century works of art.